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Smells Like A New Car To Me

The Best Ways To Keep Your Car Smelling Like New Your Car

The smell of a new car is one of the best things in the world. It's like getting a fresh start, every time you get in. But what can you do to make sure your car smells like new for as long as possible? Here are four tips that will help keep your car smelling great.

1. Don't leave food in your car.

This one seems like a no-brainer, but it's worth repeating. Whenever you eat in your car, be sure to throw away any wrappers or leftover food. Otherwise, you're just inviting critters and bacteria to come in and make themselves at home.

2. Vacuum the seats and carpets often

Even if you don't eat in your car, dirt and dust can build up on the seats and carpets. Vacuuming regularly will help to remove these particles and keep your car smelling fresh.

3. Use a fabric freshener to keep the upholstery smelling good

There are a variety of fabric fresheners on the market, both in spray and gel form. These can help to keep the upholstery in your car smelling pleasant.

4. Spray a deodorizer in the car every week or so to keep it smelling fresh.

There are products that are designed to produce the new car smell. These can be found at most auto parts stores and can help keep your car smelling like new.

 

These are just the basics, but to really get rid of tough odors like smoke, it's going to take a bit more work. Deodorizers and fabric sprays may temporarily cover up smells, but they don’t actually remove them. If you’re looking for a more long-term solution, try an ozone generator.

An ozone generator can also be used to remove smoke odors from your car. They work by producing ozone molecules which attach to and break down the particles that cause odors. Ozone generators can be purchased online or at some home improvement stores.

Stolen Car = Stolen Dreams

Can You Avoid The Nightmare?

You've waited so long. You finally saved up enough money to buy your dream car. You do your research, take test drives, and find the perfect one. The day finally arrives when you drive off the lot in your new car. You're on top of the world. But then, one day, your car is gone. It's been stolen. Your dream has become a nightmare. No one ever thinks it will happen to them. But every year, thousands of people have their cars stolen. And for many, the loss is more than just material - it's a devastating blow to their sense of security and well-being.

 

For victims of car theft, the experience can be traumatizing. Not only are they left without a means of transportation, but they also have to deal with the fallout from the crime. This can include everything from filing a police report to dealing with insurance claims.If you've been the victim of car theft, it's important to know that you're not alone. There are resources available to help you through this difficult time. And with a little effort, you can make sure that your car is returned to you safely

Most Stolen Cars Of 2021

According to a recent article from autoblog.com the most stolen cars of 2021 were.

  1. Chevrolet pickup (full-size): 48,206 total thefts

  2. Ford pickup (full-size): 47,999 total thefts

  3. Honda Civic: 31,673 total thefts

  4. Honda Accord: 30,274 total thefts

  5. Toyota Camry: 17,270 total thefts

  6. GMC pickup (full-size): 15,599 total thefts

  7. Nissan Altima: 14,108 total thefts

  8. Honda CR-V: 13,308 total thefts

  9. Jeep Cherokee / Grand Cherokee: 13,210 total thefts

  10. Toyota Corolla: 12,927 total thefts

 As you can see from the list above the most stolen cars are full-size pickup trucks followed by Honda Civic and Accord. Although these represent the most stolen vehicles it doesn't mean that these are the only ones being targeted. In fact, any car can be stolen regardless of make or model.

Always Lock Your Doors

This seems like common sense but you'd be surprised how many people don't do it. Always make sure to lock your doors, even if you're just running into the store for a quick errand. And don't leave your keys in the ignition - no matter how tempting it may be on a hot day.

Don't Leave Spare Keys In The Car

Another common mistake is leaving a spare key hidden in the car. This may seem like a good idea at the time, but it's just asking for trouble. If a thief finds your spare key, they now have easy access to your vehicle.

Install A Tracking Device With A Remote Kill Switch

If you're really concerned about your car being stolen, you can install a tracking device with a remote kill switch. This will allow you to track the location of your car if it's stolen, and even disable it if necessary. Typically they come with an app that you can use to track the location of your vehicle. Then remotely disable the car and notify the authorities who will then be able to apprehend the thief and return your vehicle.

Consider A Wheel Lock

A wheel lock is another good idea if you're worried about your car being stolen. This is a device that attaches to your wheel and makes it very difficult for a thief to drive away with your car. They're not 100% effective, but they can be a good deterrent.

Park In Well Lit Areas

Whenever possible, try to park in well lit areas and never leave packages or valuables in plain sight. Thieves often seek out easy targets of opportunity, so the less tempting your car is, the better. Although not full proof, putting valuables in the trunk is also a good i

Why Maintaining Proper Tire Pressure Matters

Proper tire pressure might not be the most glamorous aspect of car maintenance, but it's a simple and effective way to save money while driving in the city. In this article, we'll delve into why maintaining the right tire pressure is essential for your wallet and your safety, and how it can be a game-changer for your big city driving experience.

The Money-Saving Connection

You might wonder: how can something as seemingly minor as tire pressure affect my budget? Well, the truth is, it can make a substantial difference. Here's how:

1. Fuel Efficiency Boost

When your tires are underinflated, they create more rolling resistance. This means your engine has to work harder to move your vehicle, leading to increased fuel consumption. In a city where stop-and-go traffic is the norm, every ounce of fuel efficiency counts. Properly inflated tires roll more smoothly, requiring less effort from your engine and resulting in better fuel economy.

2. Extended Tire Lifespan

Driving on underinflated tires not only wastes fuel but also wears down your tires unevenly. The edges of the tires tend to experience more friction, causing them to wear out faster. Premature tire wear means you'll have to replace your tires more frequently, which can be a significant expense. By maintaining the right tire pressure, you ensure even wear, prolonging the lifespan of your tires and saving you money in the long run.

3. Improved Handling and Safety

Navigating city streets demands quick reactions and precise handling. Properly inflated tires provide better traction, responsiveness, and stability. Underinflated tires, on the other hand, can lead to decreased handling performance, especially during sudden maneuvers or when road conditions are less than ideal. By maintaining the correct tire pressure, you enhance your vehicle's ability to respond to your commands, potentially preventing accidents and costly repairs.

How to Keep Your Tires in Top Shape

Now that we understand the financial benefits of maintaining proper tire pressure let's explore how you can incorporate this practice into your busy big city lifestyle:

1. Regular Pressure Checks

Make it a habit to check your tire pressure at least once a month. Invest in a good quality tire pressure gauge – it's a small tool that can have a big impact. Check the recommended tire pressure specified in your vehicle's manual or on the driver's side door jamb. Remember that tire pressure can fluctuate with temperature changes, so check after the car has been stationary for a while and before you start driving.

2. Use a High-Quality Air Compressor

To ensure accuracy, it's best to use a reliable air compressor. Many gas stations offer air pumps, but their accuracy can vary. Investing in a portable air compressor for your home garage or keeping a trusted gauge in your car can help you maintain consistent and accurate tire pressure.

3. Balance All Four Tires

When checking and adjusting tire pressure, make sure to include the spare tire if you have one. A properly inflated spare tire can be a lifesaver in emergencies. Keeping all four tires balanced ensures consistent handling and wear, maximizing your savings.

4. Mind the Seasonal Changes

Different seasons can impact tire pressure. As temperatures drop in colder months, tire pressure tends to decrease. Conversely, during hot summer months, tire pressure can increase. Be vigilant about adjusting your tire pressure accordingly to maintain optimal performance and safety throughout the year.

5. Seek Professional Assistance

If you're unsure about proper tire pressure or notice consistent pressure loss, visit a professional mechanic. They can diagnose any issues with your tires, valves, or rims and provide expert guidance on maintaining your tire pressure effectively.

What's That Noise - Your Safety Depends On It

Your Brakes Are Telling You Something!

Brakes are an essential part of every car, helping you to slow down and stop when needed. Generally, if your brakes are making a high-pitched squealing noise when you first step on them, it's an indication that the brake pads need to be replaced.

What causes that noise when you brake?

This can be due to a number of different factors - worn or dirty brake pads, issues with the rotors or calipers, or even something as simple as dirt or debris caught in the brakes.

If you're noticing a strange noise coming from your brakes, it's always best to have them checked out by a professional mechanic to ensure there isn't a bigger issue at play.

What are the different types of brakes, and how do they work?

There are many different types of brakes, each designed to perform a specific function and work in a particular way. Some common brake types include disc brakes, drum brakes, and vacuum brakes.

Disc brakes use a system of pads that press against a spinning metal disc to slow or stop the vehicle. Drum brakes consist of two brake shoes that press against the inside of a stationary metal drum. Vacuum brakes use suction to slow or stop a vehicle, drawing air from the atmosphere into chambers

How can you tell if your brakes need to be serviced or replaced?

If your car is making a noise when you brake, there's a good chance that something is wrong with your brakes. There are several things you can do to check your brakes and see if they need to be serviced or replaced.

Another way to tell if your brakes are in need of service is to look at your brake fluid levels. If the fluid is low or dark, it could be a sign that your brakes need to be flushed and refilled.

What does turning the Rotors mean?

If you've ever had your car's brakes serviced, you may have heard the term "turning the rotors." But what does that actually mean?

Rotors are the metal discs that your brake pads press against to slow or stop your car. When they become worn or dirty, they can cause a number of problems with braking performance. Turning the rotors means machining them down so that they are smooth and clean again, allowing for better braking. If they get worn down below a certain point, they will need to be replaced entirely by a mechanic.

 

As a driver, it's important to be aware of any issues with your car's brakes, as this can have serious implications for your safety on the road. Some common symptoms of worn or faulty brakes include a high-pitched squealing noise when braking, low or dark brake fluid levels, vibrations or shuddering when applying the brakes, and poor response time. If you notice any of these issues, be sure to have your brakes checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

Stuck On The Side Of The Road - You Are Not Alone

Emergency Roadside Kits - A Friend When You Need One

We've all been there before. You're driving along, minding your own business, when suddenly you get a flat tire. Or your engine starts making strange noises. Whatever the problem is, it's a pain - and it always seems to happen at the most inconvenient time.

That's where emergency roadside kits come in. A good roadside kit can help you get out of a bind, no matter what kind of trouble you find yourself in. Whether you're on a road trip or just driving to work, it's important to have all of the supplies you need in case of an emergency.

It's not just you who will benefit from an emergency roadside kit. if you ever have to help another driver who is stranded, you'll be glad you have a kit to lend them. They will appreciate the fact that you were prepared and able to help them in their time of need.

What should you include in your emergency roadside kit?

  • Flashlight, flares, and reflective triangles will help other motorists see your car

  • A first aid kit is an essential part of any emergency roadside kit. Be sure to include items such as bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. Check for expiration dates on your supplies periodically.

  • Jumper cables. One of the best options is a self contained jump box that doesn't require another car. They typically contain charging cables for phones and other small electronics, too.

  • A tire inflator can help if you have a flat tire. You may also want to include a small can of fix-a-flat.

  • A quart of oil and a gallon of coolant will help if your car starts to overheat

  • Tools like a screwdriver, pliers, and a wrench will come in handy if you need to make minor repairs

  • A blanket. Although you would think this would only be necessary in the winter, a blanket can actually be helpful all year round. If you have a breakdown at night, the blanket will keep you warm until help arrives. Also hypothermia can set in quickly, even on a warm day.

  • Small umbrella. In case you get stranded in the rain, an umbrella will help keep you dry

Emergency roadside kits can be a lifesaver when you find yourself in an emergency on the road. They are perfect for any vehicle, whether it's your own car or someone else who needs help and is stranded by the side of the highway.

Every situation is different, so you'll need to use your best judgment when deciding what to include in your roadside kit. But these items are a good place to start. With a little bit of preparation, you'll be ready for whatever the road throws your way.

Got stuck on the side of the road one too many times? Well, you're certainly not alone. In fact, research shows that 1 in every 4 drivers will experience a car breakdown at some point this year.

Thinking About Trading Your Car?

We have a wide selection of cars, trucks and SUVs to choose from. If you're not sure what you're looking for, our team of experts can help. We'll work with you to find the perfect car for your needs and budget.

When Should You Have Your Brakes Changed

Your vehicle's brakes are undoubtedly one of the most critical safety components. Whether you're driving through bustling city streets or cruising on the open highway, having well-maintained brakes is paramount to ensuring your safety, as well as the safety of others on the road. However, it's not always easy to determine when your brakes need attention. In this blog post, we'll discuss the signs that indicate it's time to have your brakes changed and why Big City Cars is the perfect place to entrust your brake maintenance needs.

  1. Squeaking, Squealing, or Grinding Noises: One of the most noticeable indicators that your brakes need attention is the presence of unusual noises. If you hear squeaking, squealing, or grinding sounds when you apply the brakes, it's a clear sign that something is amiss. Squeaking noises often result from worn-out brake pads, while grinding sounds may indicate metal-on-metal contact, suggesting severely worn brake pads or even damaged rotors. If you encounter any of these noises, it's time to schedule a brake inspection and potentially have your brake pads or other components replaced.

  2. Reduced Responsiveness and Increased Stopping Distance: Have you noticed that your vehicle takes longer to come to a complete stop than it used to? Are you finding it harder to slow down or experiencing a soft or spongy brake pedal? These changes in brake responsiveness could be indicative of worn brake pads, a leaking brake system, or air in the brake lines. Any decline in braking performance demands immediate attention to prevent potentially dangerous situations on the road.

  3. Vibrations or Pulsations: When you apply the brakes, if you feel vibrations or pulsations in the brake pedal or steering wheel, it's likely a sign of warped brake rotors. Over time, heat and wear can cause the rotors to become uneven, resulting in an unpleasant driving experience and compromised braking performance. Addressing this issue promptly will ensure smooth and efficient braking, providing peace of mind during your city driving adventures.

  4. Warning Lights: Modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated brake systems that include sensors to monitor various components. If your brake warning light illuminates on your dashboard, it's crucial not to ignore it. While it could be a minor issue, such as low brake fluid, it could also indicate more significant problems, such as worn brake pads or a malfunctioning brake system. A professional inspection is necessary to diagnose and resolve the underlying cause effectively.

  5. Regular Maintenance Intervals: Routine maintenance is essential for the longevity and reliability of your vehicle, including its braking system. Consult your owner's manual or contact Big City Cars to determine the recommended brake maintenance intervals for your specific make and model. Regular inspections and proactive brake pad replacement can prevent more extensive damage, save you money in the long run, and ensure your brakes are always in top shape.

Why Choose Big City Cars for Brake Services: When it comes to brake maintenance, you need a reliable and experienced service provider to ensure your safety on the road. Big City Cars offers a team of skilled technicians who specialize in brake inspections, repairs, and replacements. With state-of-the-art facilities and access to high-quality parts, they can efficiently diagnose any issues and provide appropriate solutions. Their commitment to customer satisfaction, attention to detail, and competitive pricing make them the go-to destination for all your brake maintenance needs.

Conclusion: The braking system is a critical aspect of vehicle safety, and prompt attention to brake issues is vital. Whether you notice unusual noises, reduced responsiveness, vibrations, warning lights, or you're due for routine maintenance, it's crucial to address brake concerns promptly. Don't compromise your safety or the safety of others on the road. Contact Big City Cars and let their experts ensure that your brakes are in optimal condition, allowing you to navigate the busy streets with confidence and peace of mind.

Spring Car Care Tips


Spring is in the air and it makes for the perfect time to get your car in shape for road trips and weekend getaways. Here are six simple steps to ensure that your vehicle is ready for the road ahead!

Thoroughly Clean your Vehicle, Inside and Out
There’s nothing like a good spring cleaning. After months of bad weather, a thorough wash and wax is the most important thing to do with your vehicle once winter ends. You will most likely discover that a huge amount of road grime, debris, and — worst of all — salt has built-up on your vehicle. A thorough cleaning, including the engine bay and beneath the car, will get rid of this accumulated dirt.

Also take this time to make the interior shine. Get rid of the trash, papers, and junk that tends to accumulate over the winter. A warm day is a great opportunity to take your time and do a thorough cleaning that includes vacuuming and cleaning the windows inside and out. And while you are at it...don’t forget the trunk!

Check Your Tire Pressure
Tire pressure is especially important in the spring. As air temperatures get cooler during the winter, tire pressures decrease, which probably caused you to fill up your tires. But as temperatures get warmer in the spring, tire pressures can rise. If the pressure increases past your manufacturer specification (because you added air during the winter), it can lead to overinflation, which can cause premature tire wear.

When checking the tire pressure, also take a look at the depth of your tread. You can use a penny inserted headfirst into the tread. If you can see any part of the top of Lincoln’s head, it means you should replace your tires. Also inspect the sidewalls for any cuts or damage that could weaken the tire & lead to a potential blowout in hot weather.

Inspect Your Wiper Blades
As spring starts and temperatures warm up, check your wiper blades for any signs of cracking or wear. The wiper itself could wear dramatically over the winter due to ice buildup or other issues on your windshield. Experts recommend changing the blades every six months to a year, depending on use and weather.

Check Under the Hood
Do a thorough check under your hood to make sure your car’s engine made it through the winter without problems. Specifically, check belts and hoses to ensure the cold temperatures haven’t rendered them brittle or heavily worn. Check your coolant to make sure it’s not too old — an important factor for avoiding overheating as temperatures start to climb. If you aren’t comfortable performing these checks on your own, contact your mechanic. Also, make sure that you top off your windshield wiper fluid.

Check Alignment and Suspension
Winter is known for being harsh on roads, which in turn can be harsh on your vehicle. If you find yourself frequently travelling roads with huge potholes or rocks that have emerged from the asphalt, it could ruin your car’s alignment or damage suspension components.
A sure sign that you may need an alignment is if your steering wheel isn’t centered or the car doesn’t track straight. Also, your shocks or struts may need attention if you notice that the vehicle feels like it has a loose or overly soft ride with an extra rebound when going over bumps.

Check the Filters
Spring is also known for pollen and allergies. You can keep them out or minimize their presence in the cabin by replacing the filter in your climate control system. Most manufacturers recommend changing the cabin air filter every 30,000 miles.
Spring is also a good time to check your engine’s air filter to ensure that the old one hasn’t been clogged by dirt or other impurities. A filter contaminated by oil or other fluids can also be a sign of larger engine problems and should be checked by a mechanic.

We hope that you find this information useful. And as always … safe journeys on your trips around town. Big City Cars is located at 4910 Lima Road, just down from Costco. Or give us a call today at (260) 212-1111. We look forward to helping you get into a quality preowned vehicle that fits your lifestyle & budget.
 

How To Maintain Your Car’s Electrical System


Your car battery can go ignored for days until one chilly morning when you try to start your car and it does nothing but ‘click’. Want to make sure that never happens? Here’s how you go about it.

Drive Your Vehicle Regularly. It’s common sense but sometimes people forget that driving a car regularly keeps the battery charged. Even so, people will leave their car stagnant for weeks without any action, especially during their holiday vacation. If you won’t be driving your vehicle for a while, make sure you start it at least once or twice a week and leave the engine running for 20 to 30 minutes to power the battery. Otherwise, if you’re traveling and there is nobody around to help you out, you can disconnect the battery before you leave.

Don’t Leave Car Electrical Components on Without the Engine Running. If the engine is not running, don’t leave electrical accessories like the lights or the radio turned on for a long period. Doing so will only suck the battery charge and probably leave you stranded. Another thing: don’t leave the car key in the ignition or else you will kill your battery in a few hours.  

Keep the Battery Case Clean. It’s a fact, excess dirt and moisture can spoil your battery to the extent of disrupting the charge. In fact, it can even cause corrosion or acid to leak on the battery terminals. It should only take you about 30 minutes to clean the battery with water and apply grease to keep off the dirt and dampness.  

Properly Secure the Battery in the Engine Bay. The car battery is a very fragile part of the engine; if you don’t secure it, the engine vibration can disorient the battery plates. Moreover, the vibrations can also damage the terminals prompting the car to stop. All that trouble can be avoided just by locking the battery in the engine bay.  

Don’t Jump-Start A Flat Battery. Admittedly, most drivers break this rule. Now it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t seek help from a friend when your battery is dead but sometimes a flat battery can get overwhelmed with excessive current enough to spoil the electronics. If you must do it, leave your headlights on to absorb any excess electrical current. Most importantly, read the user’s manual to know how it should be done on your car.  

Park Inside A Garage in Winter. Do you know that car batteries discharge faster during winter? It’s even worse when there is water that freezes when you leave your car exposed in extremely cold weather. The most effective method of protecting your car battery during winter is to park it inside an insulated garage.   

Cut Down on Short Trips. Okay, you know that driving your vehicle regularly helps to charge your battery, but you would be doing yourself a disservice if you take short trips. If you really want to make it worth it, go out on a long trip, especially after jump starting and resurrecting your dead battery.  

Change the Battery Every 3 or 4 Years. Naturally, all car batteries dwindle with time and eventually die (just like the batteries in your TV remote control). Most car batteries should be scheduled for a replacement after 3 to 4 years of service. However, the average battery lifespan is dictated by the weather, driving habits and charge capacity.  

We hope that you find this information useful. And as always … safe journeys on your trips around town. Big City Cars is located at 4910 Lima Road, just down from Costco. Or give us a call today at (260) 212-1111. We look forward to helping you get into a quality preowned vehicle that fits your lifestyle & budget.   

5 Windshield Wiper Tips for Better Driving


Windshield wipers are vital necessities that help keep you safe on the road. When neglected, dull wiper blades can cause problems during a sudden downpour (or snowstorm), which is why keeping them properly maintained is so important. Here are a few windshield wiper care tips to help ensure your wipers are always ready to go. 

Defrost and Scrape Before Using the Wipers. Windshield wipers tend to stick when there’s been heavy snow or ice, causing them to snap if you turn them on before defrosting the windshield. In freezing temperatures, run the defroster first and scrape away any snow or ice, if necessary. It’s helpful if you warm up the car ahead of time with the defroster on high, especially if you have an early morning commute. 

Reposition the Blades During the Winter Months. Dealing with frozen windshield wipers is the last thing you want to be doing before work on a cold winter morning. To prevent this problem, pull the wiper blades away from the windshield the night before a freeze. This keeps the rubber squeegee part of the blades from freezing to the glass, and it makes it easier to scrape away any ice and snow. 

Replace the Blades at Least Twice a Year. Wiper blades are only designed to last about six months. After that, you’ll start to notice a decline in your driving visibility. To help combat this problem, buy replacements every six months and change them on time. You’ll also need to keep an eye on the blades for signs of early wear, such as smearing, skipping, or squeaking across the glass. Replacing wiper blades is really easy after a little bit of practice.   

Keep the Windshield Clean. Your car’s wiper blades are going to wear more quickly if they’re wiping across filthy glass. To help prolong their longevity, clean your windshield every time you stop to fill up at a gas station. Most stations provide a squeegee specifically for this use, so take advantage of it! Just be sure to inspect the sponge before use and wipe it with a paper towel when needed, as communal squeegees can harbor small rocks and other debris that can scratch your windshield. 

Never Run the Wipers on a Dry Windshield. Windshield wipers are designed to be used when the windshield is wet. Operating them on a dry surface can cause the wipers to wear out much more quickly than they would normally, which only causes extras headaches. When you do need to clean a dry windshield, such as when there’s pollen buildup on the glass, press the washer button first. This will require you to keep your car topped up on windshield washer fluid, which is another thing to remember as part of your wipers’ routine maintenance. 

Taking care of your car requires paying attention to the little things. When it comes to your windshield wipers, getting into a routine and being vigilant can ensure they’re always ready to go when you need them. 

We hope that you find these tips useful. And as always … safe journeys on your trips around town. Big City Cars is located at 4910 Lima Road, just down from Costco. Or give us a call today at (260) 212-1111. We look forward to helping you get into a quality preowned vehicle that fits your lifestyle & budget. 

 

How to Defog & Defrost Your Windows Fast!


Running out to your car in the nick of time only to discover frosted and fogged up window glass is not a fun way to start the day (and explaining the reason why you are late to work to your boss is not very fun either). With the unpredictable fall weather and winter lurking just behind...it’s time to stop pressing your luck. But never fear! We’ve got a few tips on how to fight that fog and frost and get you back on your way fast this fall & winter season. 

How to Defog Your Windshield When It's Raining 

  • Turn Off Recirculate Air. When your windows are foggy, you need to get fresh air to quickly take care of the issue. Known as “Fresh Air Mode”, this button located on your dashboard is one of the easiest and quickest ways to defog your windshield in cold temperatures. The button has a car with an arrow that points into the car. Once turned on, this feature pulls in fresh air from outside but does not lower the temperature inside the car. Rather, the temperature is gradually balanced and the fog across your windshield will disappear. You will have to make sure that the “Recirculation Mode” is turned off which is the button with a car and a circular arrow inside it. This function recirculates the air inside the vehicle by closing the air ducts in front. 
  • Decreasing the Temperature Inside the Car. This might not be the best option, especially for those who try and stay away from the cold. But, if your windows are fogged up, you can simply lower the temperature inside the car to match the temperature outside. You can do this by either decreasing the air-condition temperature or by increasing the fan speed to lower the temperature inside. Once the temperature is reduced, the fogged-up glass windows and windshield should clear out. However, you will need to carry an extra layer of clothing to keep yourself warm
If you want to assist the above-mentioned methods and help prevent fogging up in the future, one of the best things you can use is a dehumidifier bag (or a couple of them) and place it on your dashboard near the windshield. These bags are filled with silica balls that absorb moisture from the air. If you can’t find a dehumidifier bag, you can put a handful of silica balls in a sock and place it in your car. 

How to Defrost Your Windshield Fast 

Obviously, one of the best ways to defrost your windshield is to turn on the defrost setting on high heat in your vehicle. But what else can you do to quickly defrost your windshields?   

  • Press the A/C Button. This may sound counterintuitive to the whole heater thing, but really what you’re doing is activating a setting on your car’s A/C system that helps dry the air within your vehicle faster with the help of the coils in your A/C system. 
  • Turn Air Recirculation Off. Just like with foggy windows, you need fresh air to enter the car as well to help with defrosting your windows. Winter air is cold, and as it does not hold much moisture, it is dry. Bringing it into your car ups absorption capacity to more quickly dry the saturated air trapped within.  
  • Crack your windows. This helps exchange the humid air in your car with dryer outside air, speeding up the defrosting process (this is a similar method to turning off the air recirculation mode in your vehicle).   
We have one last tip for defrosting your windows. This one takes a bit of pre-planning; but it is well worth it! All you do is take a simple mixture of 2/3 cup Isopropyl or Rubbing alcohol mixed with 1/3 cup cold water (DO NOT USE HOT WATER). Simply pour this mixture into a spray bottle and mist your windshield & windows with it & watch the frost clear up! And here is the best part. You can use this method ANYWHERE because the solution will not freeze (rubbing alcohol has a freezing point of -128 degrees Fahrenheit). This mixture can easily be stored in your car, allowing you to spray away windshield ice anyplace, anytime of day! 

We hope that you find these tips useful. And as always … safe journeys on your trips around town. Big City Cars is located at 4910 Lima Road, just down from Costco. Or give us a call today at (260) 212-1111. We look forward to helping you get into a quality preowned vehicle that fits your lifestyle & budget. 
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